To the Editor:
The storm of criticism of Paul Clark, president of New Castle County Council, is unfair.
The changes proposed by Mr. Clark have been discussed in open meetings at the James Gilliam Building which were attended by people with a variety of backgrounds, community advocates, non-profit organizations, legal and engineering professionals, bankers, builders and realtors.
I do not believe that Mr. Clark was criticizing the Land Use Department, but voicing the opinion of many individuals who attended these meetings and are frustrated by the UDC.
A beneficial result of these meetings was the changes to the UDC in January of this year for the creation of Workforce Housing.
New Castle County first approved the Land Use zoning code in 1953, the first professional planner was hired in 1963, and the first Comprehensive Land Use Plan was not adopted until 1965. Until that time we were guided by professional engineers pro-bono with guidance by the County attorney.
I have been a Realtor for 40 years and active in community and government affairs, I have attended almost every Council meeting since Mr. Clark has been president and go to every planning board meeting that is of major importance to the community to keep informed.
Mr. Clark certainly been transparent about his business relationships.
I believe that Mr. Clark was just reaching out for some professional input as to how to make the UDC better for the community. This has been done by other governmental official as well.
Francis P. Giofre, GRI
Wilmington
